Soils, Insects and Forests

a science unit for 3rd grade students by Sarah Woodhead
The Pomfret School, Pomfret, Vermont

This unit is a collection of three subunits: soil, insects and forests. Ultimately the children will develop an appreciation and understanding of place through learning about two pieces or components of the forests, soil and insects. While studying soil they will learn about the components and properties of soil, erosion, and decomposition. While studying insects they will learn about the characteristics of insects, the classification system, their role in the forest, how to find them in the forest, and ways to find and identify evidence that the forest is filled with insects. In the forest study they will explore the pieces, patterns, and processes of a forest ecosystem. In addition to continuing to look at insects and soil in the forest, students will look for other parts of a forest, look for signs of change, discuss the purpose of forests and observe patterns of vegetation, use, growth, etc. The students will participate in a range of activities from sitting alone and observing the forest to working in groups and solving problems to deepen understanding of the concepts. They will complete projects to present to audiences including the whole school community, their classmates, and the school board addressing the patterns, pieces and processes of the forest and stewardship of the forest ecosystem, including future uses. Forests, insects, and soil are all critical to life on earth and are key elements of each and everyone's place. The overall goal of this unit is for children to develop a conceptual understanding of forests, soil, and insects as well as develop a sense of awe and wonder of their place which includes the soil, insects, and the forest.

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